Philadelphia Union convinces Mwanga to turn back on Europe

Oregon State University’s Pacific-10 Conference’s player of the year Danny Mwanga could be installed as this year’s number on draft pick at the MLS SuperDraft on January 14.

The 18-year old has big ambitions in the sport but for the time being will stick with MLS and could find himself in expansion franchise Philadelphia Union’s colours when the 2010 season kicks off.

“I wanted to go to Europe," he said, "and I didn't want to be in the MLS for that long."

But that soon changed when Phillie coach Peter Nowak visited Mwanga and convinced him to sign with MLS and Generation adidas suggesting he may be chosen at pick one when the draft occurs in a week’s time.

Mwanga’s former club coach Monty Hawkins has no doubt the youngster has the ability to make iot at the highest level.

“I've been doing soccer probably since I was 6 years old, and it was really obvious when I saw Danny play that he was a special player," said Hawkins.

"As good as he is at soccer, he's a far better person than a player."

Mwanga admits Hawkins has been a major factor in helping him make decisions so far in his career including this latest one.

"Whenever I'll have a problem I'll come to (Hawkins) and we'll sit together and find a solution," Mwanga said. "That's why I trust him, and I know he trusts me, too.

"I would definitely say he's pretty much like my father now."